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Second To None: Second Cup On Wellington West

Fall 2020

There is nothing like a crisp fall Saturday in the heart of Hintonburg. Autumn has always been an exciting time in the community; local shops like St. Vincent de Paul welcome the new season with orange and gold window displays. Restaurants on every corner offer creative fall-inspired treats, while the Parkdale market blooms with rustic aesthetics just in time for thanksgiving. As of September, transitions to October, seasonal rituals seem less traditional as we continually adapt to a new way of living. However, one thing remains the same: the community’s undying need for fresh, strong coffee. Thankfully, Second Cup in Wellington West has been there for us during these unprecedented times.

A small Second Cup coffee shop sits on the bustling corner of Parkdale and Wellington, across from The Great Canadian Theatre Company. This location is still relatively new to the neighbourhood. A community veteran may recall when the site was home to the World of Maps. But, three years into its residency, the Canadian establishment continues to thrive. The café powers the neighbourhood with unique handcrafted drinks and seasonal favourites, including the almighty pumpkin-spiced latte from six am to six pm.

The intoxicating aroma of fresh coffee and baked goods welcomes guests at the door. The cheerful chatter of morning patrons hums through the seating area as the baristas serve piping hot coffee. Behind the counter, a colourful menu is spread across the wall, showcasing a multitude of dinks appealing to coffee fans and tea and smoothie enthusiasts alike. In addition, latte lovers have various dairy-free options.

Aside from the traditional almond and soy options, Second Cup offers an oat alternative. Fans of oat “milk” can enjoy specialty drinks designed for this latest dairy-free substitution. The oat frappe, for example, is a new twist on the iced cappuccino: notes of vanilla and rich espresso blended with creamy oat “milk” is the ideal Saturday pick-me-up.

The bakery, although small, flourishes with an abundance of mouth-watering treats and sandwiches. The fall season brings delightful pumpkin-spiced muffins topped with pumpkin seeds exclusive to the brand. For coffee lovers looking to kick off their morning with a savoury breakfast, the grilled cheese sandwich is an option that is both satisfying and comforting. The bakery also displays notable classics for guests with a more traditional palette. Pot pies and iced fudge brownies are showcased behind the glass, tempting guests as they wait to be served. The vegan options are limited, but the shop offers unique and tasty vegan and vegetarian lunch items. The falafel wrap is an excellent example of wholesome, delicious vegan cuisine that even a skeptic would enjoy.

The staff and management are the steady heartbeats that keep this small café alive and thriving. The baristas are efficient and friendly and create a safe and enjoyable dine-in experience by upholding social distancing expectations. Although the seating area is limited inside the café, the small patio offers a picturesque view of a lively Saturday in Wellington West.

We search for continuity as we try to navigate this brave new world. We are not looking for a unique experience but a familiar one. Luckily for west-end dwellers, the classic coffee run remains the same. So, whether you are looking for a place to meet with friends or in need of a break from endless zoom meetings, the Second Cup on Wellington has you covered.